Employers may prefer to hire account coordinators with college degrees, although there is flexibility regarding the type of degree required. Aspiring account coordinators may decide to earn a communications degree. A degree in marketing is another option, although it should be noted that not all account coordinators work for marketing firms.1
A communications degree is a particularly versatile choice because it instills skills that are applicable to a broad range of sectors, industries and fields. Students majoring in communication can acquire foundational skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning and ethical decision-making. Although it will vary from one school to the next, the curriculum for a communications degrees generally includes topics such as the following:
- Theories in communications, communication models and common conundrums in the field
- Communication skills in small group settings, including both individual participation and leadership
- Intercultural communications, including verbal and nonverbal communication behaviors, styles and traditions
- Conflict communication and negotiation strategies in international, interpersonal and organizational contexts
- Key argumentation and advocacy concepts and skills, including the construction of oral and written arguments
- The development and implementation of various types of communication campaigns, including political, social, environmental and marketing campaigns
During your communications degree program, you will have the opportunity to take elective courses. You might even decide to pursue a minor to complement your major. Look for classes that support your career goals in addition to those that align with your personal interests.
For example, an aspiring account coordinator may decide to take some general business electives, such as classes in organizational behavior and management, business administration or technological skills. Earning a minor in marketing is another solid choice because the marketing field is a major employer of account coordinators.1 While working toward this minor, you would study topics such as marketing, consumer behavior and promotion advertising.
